Lincoln and Van Buren

Lincoln and Van Buren. Looking for Lincoln. , In 1842, former President Martin Van Buren, who had lost his bid for the Presidency, was touring the American countryside to see if he could garner enough support for another run for the office. He was headed into Springfield for a rally, traveling via the Terre Haute Road, but because of bad weather and muddy roads, he was forced to stop in Rochester on June 16, 1842. The Springfield Democrats were concerned that the small village did not have suitable offerings, so they came out to Rochester armed with refreshment, supporters, and the thirty-three-year-old Whig, Abraham Lincoln. Even though Lincoln was not of the same political party as Van Buren, he was well known for his wit and endless supply of yarns. It was felt that he would be a fine source of entertainment for Van Buren. Indeed, the two men hit it off splendidly, and Van Buren was later known to have remarked, "It was one of the best evenings I ever spent in my life.", Lincoln and Van Buren are dominant figures in the foreground, laughing and thoroughly enjoying the company of one another. In the distance is a receding storm, which symbolizes not only the weather which precipitated Van Buren's forced lay-over but is also a metaphor for the upheaval in each man's life. Lincoln was depressed over his severed relationship with Mary Todd. Van Buren was distressed by his defeat in the 1840 election. However, the storm as depicted by artist Helen Stannard, is shown passing and opening up to a sunlit sky, indicative of their developing friendship., Even though June 16, 1842 is the only recorded meeting of Abraham Lincoln and Martin Van Buren, it is evident that this chance encounter made a lasting impression on each of them and molded an enduring friendship. Lincoln was a country lawyer and a member of the Illinois State Legislature when he met Van Buren. His political career advanced, however, and by 1860, he was chosen as the Republican candidate for president. , Although Van Buren was still a Democrat at this time, he gave his support to Lincoln as he aspired for the Presidency. While Lincoln was serving as President in 1862, former President Martin Van Buren died in Kinderhook, New York. As a tribute to their friendship and respect for the Office of President, Lincoln ordered a special military salute in Van Buren's honor.